Anti-Semitism in America

The Kansas City JCC murders remind us that virulent anti-Semitism does exists in the United States.

On a quiet Sunday afternoon, the JCC in Overland Park, Kansas was full of kids. Some were there for a singing and dancing competition. Others were just arriving with their parents for an umpire clinic. Nearby, in Shalom Village, an assisted living facility, residents and staff were getting ready for Passover, which was starting the following night.

The calm of that afternoon of April 13, 2014 was shattered when Frazier Glenn Cross, a 73 year old white supremacist with a history of founding racist, anti-Semitic, paramilitary organizations, strode into both buildings, shooting at adults and children alike. A father who was visiting the JCC that day with his young son described the scene: “All of the sudden we heard a gunshot, a pretty loud gunshot… I turned to look to my right and I can see a man standing outside a car with a shotgun, what to me looked like a shotgun, and there was somebody laying on the ground.”

By the time the rampage was over, three people were dead: William Corporon, a local doctor; his 14-year-old grandson, Reat Underwood, who’d been looking forward to competing in the JCC’s singing competition; and Terri LaManno, who was visiting her elderly mother in Shalom Village.

As it happened, none of Cross’ fatal victims were Jewish, but Cross’ intentions to harm Jews by targeting Jewish institutions was clear. After his arrest, he shouted “Heil Hitler!” to the traumatized crowd around him.

It’s tempting to dismiss Cross as an aberration, one eccentric old man. But he’s hardly alone. In the days after his rampage, the mayor of a town near where Cross lived, Mayor Danny Clevenger of Marionville, Missouri, even praised Cross, echoing his anti-Semitic views, saying Jews are “destroying” the United States.

As the world prepares to mark Yom HaShoah to commemorate and honor the memory of the six million Jews who were killed in the Holocaust 70 years ago, it’s incredible to realize that today in America there are people who will proudly call out “Heil Hitler” as they shoot and murder innocent children – and shocking to realize that there are others who publicly support their odious views.

American Jews are used to hearing of high levels of anti-Semitism and reading of horrific attacks on Jews overseas. In the weeks leading up to Cross’ attack, for instance, the openly neo-Nazi political party Jobbik won 21 percent of the vote in Hungarian national elections and a seat in the government and France’s anti-Jewish National Front made significant gains in French local elections, winning control in several towns. Two weeks after the shooting, Jews in Ukraine were handed leaflets ordering them to register with local authorities. In some European countries today, clear majorities of people polled hold anti-Semitic opinions: 63% in Hungary, for example, and 53% in Spain.

The United States, in contrast, can sometimes feel like a country free of the taint of anti-Semitism. Tragically, the Kansas City JCC murders remind us that virulent anti-Semitism does exists in the US.

According to the FBI, nearly 20% of all hate crimes in the US are directed against people of a particular religion; of those, the vast majority target Jews. Even though Jews make up less than 3% of the population of the United States, more than 63% of religiously-motivated hate crimes in the US were directed against Jews.

The crimes range from ethnic slurs and insults, to vandalism, property damage, even life-threatening attacks. A 2012 survey found nearly a thousand reported anti-Semitic attacks in the US that year, including Molotov cocktails thrown into the house of a rabbi in New Jersey, a Jew punched in the face as he walked home from synagogue, swastikas and threats to Jews written on buildings, cemetery vandalism, and more.

And those are just the reported incidents. For many American Jews, anti-Jewish feelings create a climate of fear, eroding their confidence and comfort. One 2013 poll found that fully 81% of American Jews feel that anti-Semitism is a problem in the United States.

Other studies concur. A 2013 poll by the ADL found that fully 12% of Americans hold anti-Semitic views. And when it comes to specific questions about Jews, the numbers can be far higher.

15% of Americans believe Jews are more likely than other groups to use “shady business practices” to get what they want. 17% of Americans believe Jews “control” Wall Street. 14% of Americans believe Jews have “too much power” in the business world. 13% of Americans believe Jews don’t care about other people; 15% believe Jews have a lot of irritating habits.

The most widespread suspicion of Jews in America seems to focus on the age-old anti-Semitic accusation that Jews aren’t good citizens: fully 30% of Americans believe Jews are more loyal to Israel than to the US.

Given the hatred of Jews in some corners of American society, what can we do? Here are five ways to begin combating anti-Semitism today.

1. Become a teacher.

The ADL survey found that best-educated Americans are the least anti-Semitic: 8% of college-educated Americans admit to anti-Semitic views, for instance, while 19% of Americans with only a high-school education held anti-Jewish views.

Take opportunities to share your Jewish knowledge with others; you might just dispel some myths and change people’s minds when you do.

2. Educate yourself.

I’ll always remember a comparative religions professor I encountered when I was 17. He seemed dismissive of Jews and Judaism, and I felt he looked down on me as a Jewish student. He wasn’t Jewish, but even so, he knew much more about my own religion than I’d ever learned in Hebrew School as a child.

As irritating as he was, that professor did me a huge favor: I decided to take Hebrew classes and begin learning more about Judaism in college, in part to counter his negative statements.

It’s never too late to educate ourselves, and become more effective advocates for ourselves and our wider Jewish community.

3. Find your pride.

Tapping into our Jewish heritage – and immersing ourselves in it – is the best way to combat anti-Semitism. It gives us the strength and tools we need to combat prejudice – and also enriches our lives.

Consider taking on a new piece of Jewish observance, attending Jewish classes, or attending synagogue more regularly.

4. Speak out

When you hear anti-Semitic slurs, speak out. When you signal you won’t stand for anti-Semitism, it sends a clear message that this sort of discourse is unacceptable.

5. Connect your wider Jewish community.

You don’t have to combat anti-Jewish slurs alone. Connecting with other Jews and Jewish organizations can help give you the tools – and the courage – to stand up to anti-Semitism.

Featured at Aish.com:

About the Author

Yvette Alt Miller earned her B.A. at Harvard University. She completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Jewish Studies at Oxford University, and has a Ph.D. In International Relations from the London School of Economics. She lives with her family in Chicago, and has lectured internationally on Jewish topics. Her book Angels at the table: a Practical Guide to Celebrating Shabbat takes readers through the rituals of Shabbat and more, explaining the full beautiful spectrum of Jewish traditions with warmth and humor. It has been praised as "life-changing", a modern classic, and used in classes and discussion groups around the world.

The opinions expressed in the comment section are the personal views of the commenters. Comments are moderated, so please keep it civil.

Visitor Comments: 53

(44)
Anonymous,
March 13, 2016 8:55 PM

Very true but I believe numbers are much higher

I had gone through such an attack and there were Russian Jews who supported me but NOT American Jews who distanced themselves, unconscionably also attacking me. This action will not save them from being attacked nor will the corrupt Jewish presence siding with the attackers. Torah is action. When something bad happens to us, in my case EXTREMELY bad, the Great One wants you to know something, to see something and to do something. I did, I am. If Jews are not on the side of Justice, what kind of Torah are they reading? If a heart is not on the side of Talmud, Torah I do not think it helpful to wash one's hands three times before reading as the filth of corruption has indeed pierced their minds and hearts. Such is the reprobate soul of a hypocrite. They are unsalvageable.

(43)
Neicee,
February 25, 2016 5:26 PM

Good advice Jewish Mama

Though I'm not Jewish I still keep a current passport at all times, along with enough cash to do what I'd have to do to leave the country if needed.

As far as antisemitism, I believe it all starts with envy. How could 'they' be smarter, better educated, their wives better at housekeeping/child rearing etc.. and they're all rich.

One more rant; can we refer to the Hebrew Bible instead of 'Old' testament. The New testament wording makes me cringe too because it encourages people to think it supplants the old. Now, with archaeological evidence more can be proven about the Hebrew Bible and it's people than can be proven in the Christian Bible. Delicious!

I humbly request all Christian pastors, ministers, preachers to stop your Sunday morning tirades about how the Jews lost their covenant with G-d because they kept sinning, like G-d always broke His promises and covenants. I can't even imagine what the gentiles were doing during this time - oh that's right they were busy killing/raping/burning down things they didn't build & worshiping false gods. Back to envy......

(42)
Barajas,
August 3, 2015 10:07 PM

Certainly, Kedusha and Tumaa support each other and must coexist until they are corrected. What does “Sitra Achra” (Other side/Evil inclination) mean? It means that the people of Israel haven’t finished their task. Through their example, the Jews must bring the entire world to unity and love. However, since they have not provided such an example, the entire world has the opposite characteristic, especially those people who are sensitive to this situation and become anti-Semitic.

All of the international leaders, politicians, and presidents are anti-Semitic because through their integration into political work and their work with the masses, they subconsciously begin to feel that the force that obstructs them is found here, and we are the ones who are doing this! We are obstructing all of humanity, making it impossible for them to achieve the best state because we must do it first.

3,500 years ago, Abraham gathered the Jewish people from among completely different people, and united them through the law “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” above all of the contradictions and oppositions between them. That is how we existed for 1,500 years until 2,000 years ago when we fell from the level of love to the level of hatred

(41)
sues,
February 21, 2015 12:50 AM

anti-semetic people

I agree that hate is learned at home. Kids follow mommy and daddy. People who hate a certain group have no friends of that group. That is why there so bitter. Oskar Shindler had a jewish best friend in his childhood which was the good seed that was planted in him. Of course he was also a very brave man as well.

(40)
Barry,
January 17, 2015 12:47 AM

People Just do not learn from History.

Here we go again. It started just like this many times before in history and Europe to be specific.

The Hamas Islamist Terrorists are using Anti-Semitism to bring out the Jew-Haters around the world who learned how to hate from their Parents. They will teach their children to hate Jews and the chain continues.

Unfortunately, Israel needs the World News Media to be pro-Israel instead of comparing them to Nazis. Colleges need to stop promoting Islam on their campuses. They need to be fair to both sides instead of making Israel the skapegoat for killing Arabs while they are shooting missiles int Israel.

Somehow Israel became the bad guys -- I do not unbderstand how this happened but those in the know see that Israel is our ONLY democratic friend in the Middle East. The Islamic factions hate each other and have attacked each other for centuries. This continues in the present. They cannot get along with themselves, how could they possibly get along peacefully with Israel when they want to force them into the Mediterranean Sea. That is their prime goal, the annhialation of the Nation of Isael.

Until this happens (God forbid) Arab lands will hate israel just because they are there.

I really hope things change for the betterment of Israel's sake.

(39)
Beverly Margolis-Kurtin,
August 15, 2014 1:03 AM

Noam Chomsky be Damned

I get nauseated by self-hating Jews such as Chomsky. It isn't that Israel is perfect, it isn't--neither is the United States--but do we really need Jews such as Chomsky slandering the only Jewish State in the world?I hope to never see him in person.

Devorah,
March 13, 2016 9:10 PM

Noah Chomsky is NOT the only one!

I know of Jews who actively utilize the funds of equally disturbed Jews to unsettle Israel. To turn on their Jewish brothers and sisters, and eventually usurp the Government of Israel. As much as we wish this were not so, they did such during the Holocaust. You may state they are self hating yet it is clear about who they hate. True believers. We have such people even in the Jewish Federation. Including but not limited to City and State Offices within United States Government. They are usurping the Civil Rights of Jews and non Jews alike, Such are Criminal minds. Even the Gestapo loved them Jewish or not. Sociopaths/psychopaths.

(38)
John Vermeer,
August 11, 2014 3:24 AM

What do we do when there are Jewish intellectuals like Noam Chomsky and Amy Goodman painting us as genocidal monsters in Gaza? Few of us are there to see it for ourselves and know how to refute it effectively? These Jews don't realize the danger to us all.

Esther Cook,
January 15, 2015 8:35 PM

Share the Truth

This is not something outside our control. Our teens know how to use social media to communicate. In Massachusetts, American Jews promoted the truth about Israel to their communities--resulting in a lessening of anitsemitism and a positive understanding of Israel's struggles.Our youth have so much energy. Get yours the facts and have them spread it everywhere.

(37)
Anonymous,
June 5, 2014 10:07 AM

Anti-Semitism in NYC newspapers

I come from NYC where I met and married my Israeli husband. We owned a loft in lower midtown NYC and he tried to sell it for 10 years and move back to Israel - no luck. That is until I saw a very small add in the New York Daily News in 1987 which reported on the Federal Government's decision to stop the Holocaust Series - which taught high school students about the Holocaust. When I saw this I became frightened by this and told my husband to sell. We sold the loft just a few months later and made aliyah to Israel in 1988. I have been following reports on anti semitism in the US and I wonder why no one saw it like I did.

(36)
Kaye Oneal,
May 23, 2014 11:51 PM

Jews need some good PR to educate the nation

This antisemitism is sickening, but I agree that education can help. If people believe that Jews don't care about anyone else, then why not have a regular column in the religious section of newspapers on the contributions of Jews to the US. Talk about not only scientific advances, but their humanitarian efforts, philanthropy, etc. People need to be aware of all the good that Jewish people do for others.

(35)
Beverly Margolis-Kurtin,
May 22, 2014 8:44 PM

Anger begets anger, ditto hattred

I'm 73 years YOUNG. Jew hate is one of the very few things that can be changed. Benjamin Franklin said "A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still." And that is very true, except in this one case.Although I live in Texas, in the buckle of the Bible Belt, I seldom come face-to-face with Jew hate, but when I do, I do not get angry, I ask questions.My favorite question is "Are you a Christian?" If they say yes, I ask "Then why do you hate Jews on the one hand and worship a Jew on the other? Does that make any sense to you?"In many cases they first try to deny that they worship a Jew, but I pull out my handy-dandy Kindle and SHOW them that the verses that the guy they worship comes from Tenach. When they try to weasel out by saying those words are from the New Testament I just smile, shake my head, and remind them that there WAS no such thing when J was walking around on the planet.THEN, I ask them what did J say when asked what the most important commandment was. Invariably, they get it wrong. Most of the time they say, "Love your neighbor as yourself." I shake my head and say, "Good try, but you're mistaken." (NEVER say that they're wrong.) Then I show them the Shema on my Kindle (yes, I've got a prayer book on it). Believe or not, folks, J said the Shema and then said "Love your neighbor..." There is no need to get angry or upset when talking with a Jew hater; they were TOLD what to think and then they say it. It is amazing how many former Jew haters there are out there. When they get educated, they drop their former beliefs.Whenever I run into a heart attack survivor, I ask them if they have stents in their coronary arteries. "Do you know you have Jews to thank for that? Stents were invented in Israel. So were many other life-saving devices.

Anonymous,
July 2, 2014 4:00 AM

Well Said!

Ed Montgomery,
January 16, 2015 7:59 PM

Excellent View

This is such a good plan I hope you won't mind if I use it.

(34)
Michael,
May 21, 2014 3:03 AM

I will say it !!!

For all the Jew hater out there, there is a place in the afterlife for you. I wanted to go on a rant to the haters. Yes, The heavens will hear me when these hater yell out their hate. This really makes many many of us ill.Jews have done more for gentile and Jews alike then any other people. Jews have a problem not helping ANYONE with a sad story. I seen it a thousand times. Then the person calls the good Jew foul names behind their backs.Many Jews look at me funny when I say there are no "bad Jews.". I have seen the scared faces of Jewish school children and their Rabbi in my many years in local and federal law enforcement. It would break one' heart. I made certain, day and night the Jewish community were safe from terror in Chicago.I am retired now, but still can see the Rabbi' smile at me knowing they were in good hands.The ADL is one great otg' in the world. Support them when you can. They give their hearts out combating HATE. Thank you AISH, you are loved by millions.

(33)
Anonymous,
April 26, 2014 6:17 PM

This just goes to show how stupid anti-semites are: he couldn't even recognize a Jew if he saw one. He killed 3 Christians, I hope he is proud of himself.

(32)
Kadima Nechama,
April 25, 2014 4:29 AM

Note from a Kansas City resident

My child attends school located in the JCC in Overland Park, and my parents lived at Village Shalom until their recent passing. This attack was very personal to my family. I must say that the community has come together in an amazing way since the horrific events of two weeks ago. I'm speaking of the Jewish community as well as the community at large. It has been heartening to see support from the greater community in reaction to this event. I realize at the same time that there is truth to those saying "Make aliyah now!" But I also recall the terrorist attack that occurred in Jerusalem 1/4 block from where I was working in 1984 during my year in Israel. After attending an event this evening here at the JCC with by members of the trauma division of Chai Lifeline, I come away wondering how differently we deal with anti-semitism here in our safe Overland Park suburb vs. those who must remain diligent constantly in Israel. For us this event was totally unexpected and rocked our "secure" world. For our brothers and sisters in Israel, vigilance is 24/7.Do I keep my passport up-to-date? Yes. Do I dream of living in Israel? Absolutely. Have I contacted Nefesh B'Nefesh yet? No. I have no answers. It's all so raw. Perhaps with time. Meanwhile, I know complacency cannot be an option.

(31)
John,
April 24, 2014 7:18 PM

Who ever said it wasn't?

Antisemitism is alive and well in America....so you say. When did ANYONE here say that it wasn't! It's even in Israel too! So what's your point exactly? YOU...ME...US...The World will never end the hostility until the world bow downs before G-D and begs for forgiveness. Then, and ONLY then will the world survive.

(30)
JEFF NEWMARK,
April 24, 2014 1:44 PM

AMERICA

HOW CAN ANYONE BE SHOCKED? SCRATCH THE SURFACE AND WHAT DO WE SEE? THE SAME!! SHANAH HABAH BYERUSHALIM!!! LAMAH LO?

(29)
Shoshanah Rothschild,
April 24, 2014 1:21 PM

anti semitism in HUngary

I defected thru the iron curtain many years ago, from Hungary. I have stumbled up on a page in hungarian, comments about jews. I was HORRIFIED to read all the opinions about us,I would say 80 percent was so bad, I could not read any more.Especially when people can voice their opinion, "without a face" when we don't know who they are…Most of them also denied the Holocoust,even though it is illegal to do so in Hungary.

(28)
Tuvia Dovid,
April 24, 2014 6:51 AM

The anti-Semitic mayor resigned

Worth noting. Danny Clevenger is no longer mayor of Marionville, Mo. He resigned Monday night after the Board of Aldermen voted 4-1 to begin impeachment proceedings against him because of his anti-Semitic comments. This shows we often have more friends in more places than we realize. From that, in turn, we get yet another indication of how unwise it would be to flee to Israel whenever there is another isolated episode of anti-Semitism. If all the Jews wind up in Israel, it will only take one Iranian nuke to wipe Judaism off the planet. Even the craziest of the mullahs, however, know better than to try to nuke the US, much less also the UK, France, Russia and other countries in the Diaspora. In this way, the Diaspora Jewish communities provide a vital bulwark of support for Israel. We also learn the value of fulfilling our mission to be an or lagoyim/light to the nations. Knowing our light has been seen and recognized by the Board of Aldermen in Marionville, Mo., should give us the courage and confidence to shine it anywhere else that is threatened by the darkness of anti-Semitism.

(27)
Zalmen,
April 24, 2014 1:45 AM

Argument?? How many Jews are in JAIL?... what percentage?? If were so bad hoe about comparing ethnichaly proportions?Hw many live on wellfare?...Becoiuyse they work honestly for theire sustaintion??How many are ILETRATE?...or vandalize or bulling thighs?'Its LOVE to LIFE instead of love of Death!! Deut 30:19How come the respect to the other human beeing is whithioold among humans, How many scientific developments ?? This is called simply ENVI... All humans are created EQUAL, but not ALL seek for respect to the other!

(26)
Anonymous,
April 23, 2014 11:19 PM

anti-Semitism in the U.S.

Anti-Semitism is really not all that shocking, as the writer claims, nor is the horrific attack perpetrated in Kansas.. After reading an extremely detailed and excellent book called "Hitler's Willing Executioners" by Daniel Jonah Goldhagen, everything about anti-Semitism became crystal clear to me. Goldhagen posits that anti-Semitism does not wax or wane. It is always present, and it is at its base, founded on fantastical beliefs that date back many centuries, and are continually repeated and believed. New fantasies about the Jews are always added with each century. However, at its center is the fact that the Jews would not accept Christ as their god, back in the third century, and if the Jews did not accept him, the Jews must be related to Satan. Therefore, they are subhuman, and must be removed from the earth. And so it began, and continues to this day. Goldhagen also notes, that in Germany in the 1800-l900's. Jew hatred was particularly virulent, and that is the reason Germans so willingly and joyfully participated in Hitler's plan; they just needed the right circumstances to rid Germany and Europe of its Jews. Hitler (yemach schmo) did not have to work very hard to convince most of the people. The business about the Jews owning the media, the banks, and Wall St., are really just a continuation of anti-Semitic canards, but not THE reason for it. As awful as the shooting was in Kansas, we must realize that anti-Semitism never ever goes away. One would think that after the Holocaust, anti-Semitism would disappear completely, but that is not the case. People have short memories, and other just hate. Hopefully, we Jews will not allow anyone to degrade, humiliate, and harm us. We need to stay aware of and be cognizant anti-Semitism's existence.

(25)
Anonymous,
April 23, 2014 10:13 PM

Bruce is correct. Left/Liberals are worst enemies of Israel and of Jews, even if Jews themselves.

Bruce is correct. The real enemies of Israel are Left/Liberal groups who attack Israel constantly, and even question Israel's legitimacy.. They --even if they consider themselves Jews-- are the most numerous Jew haters in the U.S. It's ironic, when you consider that the strongest proponents of Israel and the Jewish people are American Christians.

(24)
Anonymous,
April 23, 2014 7:54 PM

Anti-Semitism in America

It is very sad that anti-Semitism is still around after thousands of years. I first remember encountering anti-Semitism when I was 12. I did a short presentation on the Holocaust in a history class. Afterwards a student who last I knew was a member of a white supremacist/neo-Nazi organization asked if I were Jewish and I said yes. He then told me that I should have died in the Holocaust too. That was the moment I felt most connected to the Jewish people. I have since then put forth a great effort in fighting anti-Semitism. It also made me want to learn even more about the Jewish people. It essentially made me more Jewish and prouder of my heritage. The best weapon is education as you say and for all parties involved. Rather than being saddened by such events I think we can use them as sources of strength. That moment when I was 12 I think made me a better person. I became aware that there was indeed evil in the world, but that we can make the world better if we want to. One thing to never let go of is cultural/religious pride, but at the same time recognizing that there is no superior culture/religion and learning as much as we can and offering others as much knowledge as they want. It's all very sad, but I think it can make us much stronger.

(23)
Anonymous,
April 23, 2014 7:07 PM

Not that it wouldn't or couldn't or won't happen, but the leaflets ordering Ukrainian Jews to register with Ukrainian authorities were not government sponsored.

FROM USA TODAY

'SMELLS LIKE PROVOCATION'

Olga Reznikova, 32, a Jewish resident of Donetsk, told Ynet she never experienced anti-Semitism in the city until she saw this leaflet.

"We don't know if these notifications were distributed by pro-Russian activists or someone else, but it's serious that it exists," she said. "The text reminds me of the fascists in 1941," she said referring to the Nazis who occupied Ukraine during World War II.

The chief rabbi of nearby Dnipropetrovsk, Shmuel Kaminezki said, "Everything must be done to catch them...[but] it's important for everyone to know its not true."

FROM USA TODAY

The leaflet then described which documents Jews should provide: "ID and passport are required to register your Jewish religion, religious documents of family members, as well as documents establishing the rights to all real estate property that belongs to you, including vehicles."

Consequences for non-compliance would result in citizenship being revoked "and you will be forced outside the country with a confiscation of property." A registration fee of $50 would be required, it said.

More can be found at http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2014/04/17/jews-ordered-to-register-in-east-ukraine/7816951/

(22)
Beverly Kurtin,
April 23, 2014 6:27 PM

A man convinced against his will...

...is of the same opinion still. Benjamin Franklin.

Recently, scientists finally came to the same conclusion that Mr. Franklin did a couple of hundred years ago. It is very hard to get people to change their innermost beliefs, hard but not impossible.We Jews are a minority in any country we're in. Here in the United States we're only about 0.02% of the population--2 hundreds of one percent! How in the hell are we tearing this country apart?Trying to list all of the benefits the world has been given by the Jewish people is close to impossible; there simply too many to list.However, I grew up when Polio was feared by all. Going to the beach was something we were prohibited to do, getting together in large numbers was discouraged. Polio was as feared as the black plagues were in Europe.Then one man, a Jewish man, discovered how to eliminate Polio as a feared disease. Jonas Salk. That Jewish man could have made what would be billions of dollars in today's money, but he chose instead not to patent his discovery. His wife left him because of that, but he simply said, "Would you try to patent the sun?"Yes, we've got some bad actors amongst us, but mostly, we've got some pretty smart cookies who are discovering more and more cures for diseases and physics had possibly its greatest scientist since Newton--Albert Einstein. He changed the world forever.The caricaturis of Jews, however wrong they are, are still stuck in what passes for brains in those who hate us for no reason. I actually feel sorry for them because Hashem said, "I will bless them that bless you and curse them that curse you."I would hate to be among those who curse us.I hope everyone had a wonderful Pesach, I certainly did.

Anonymous,
April 28, 2014 1:56 AM

bad math

6 million Jews in a population of 300 million is 2 percent, not .02 percent. There is a big difference.

(21)
Ronald Sevenster,
April 23, 2014 6:16 PM

No Surprise

This is no surprise for anyone who regularly gives a glance to the comment sections of the most important national newspapers online. News about the Middle East very often evokes Antisemitic comments of the most vulgar kind. This tells us that there is huge potential for actual antisemitism in the US.

(20)
Michael,
April 23, 2014 5:35 PM

Learn from history

Remember history , 6 million Jews died and many millions before them , the lesson ARM YOURSELVES !!!!! Guns do save lives in trained and responsible hands !! Consider making aliyah even better !!!

ayala,
April 25, 2014 2:34 AM

Yes Learn from History; Anti-Semitism is a natural consequence...

Yes, learn from history! See how anti-semitism strikes whenever we Jews forget who we are and start assimilating and straying from G-d. The lesson is to arm ourselves--- with Torah and Mitzvos!!

(19)
chava,
April 23, 2014 5:04 PM

a good example of how to convince people of something

I agree with the points the author is making. But I couldn't help being struck by the fact that, if she were trying to say the opposite, she would have use the other statistics --- 85percent of the people..., which sounds like a good solid majority. It's so easy to touch people emotionally using statistics and loaded words.

(18)
Dr. Sam Lax,
April 23, 2014 4:18 PM

we, as Jews, cannot ignore anti-semetic comments - but should challenge them immediately.

Keep these emails coming.

(17)
Anonymous,
April 23, 2014 3:49 PM

2nd Amendment to U.S. Constitution

Wednesday, 04/23/14 c.e. ///I read at www.jpfo.org that both targeted Kansas Jewish institutions had "Gun-Free Zone" signs prominently posted at their main entrances. There comes a time when the ADL, interfaith candlelight vigils, andletters to the editor aren't enough. We should all be making Aliyah.

(16)
JB Silver,
April 23, 2014 2:52 PM

Anti-Semitism exists in USA, but don't go overboard

First of all, I want to thank Fr. Barrocas and also Loretta; both of you are examples of why horrible things like the attack in Kansas do not put me in fear in USA. Most non-Jewish Americans are more pro-Israeli than many so-called 'liberal' American Jews. If there is a problem, you can always come to Israel.

There are Jews who do bad and even evil things, and let's not defend them when they do. Let's clean up our own acts, too, please. And yet, with all the anti-Semitism, the USA has been the most welcoming place to Jews for hundreds of years. And MOST non-Jews are pro-Israel.

So please, while you are careful, re.threats from anti-Semites, don't forget all the good people.G-D Bless.

(15)
Bruce,
April 23, 2014 2:48 PM

Today's anti-Israel crowd is the largest source of anti-Semitism

We need to stay focused. The most dangerous enemy today is not yesterday's most dangerous enemy. To focus on kooks is to ignore the very real--and much greater-- threat of Left/liberal anti-Israel group-think whose hatred of Israel is nothing less than a slightly disguised but equally pathological and deadly anti-Semitism.

(14)
Shelley,
April 23, 2014 2:40 PM

Why non-Jews think Jews are un-American

I am a proud Jew. I consider myself conservadox. Almost all of my friends are Jewish. I regularly attend shul, keep kosher, etc. My non-Jewish friends are those I met during my teaching career. They are well educated people. In many conversations in my lifetime (I'm 63), almost every one of my Jewish friends have stated that if America went to war with another country, their sons would not fight for America. The've made comments to the fact that the military was only for sons that couldn't do anything else. They say their sons are too smart to serve and if there was a draft, they would try to find ways to keep their sons out of military service. These same friends say that if Israel is attacked in a full-out war then they would reluctantly let their sons serve in the Israeli army. Every one of these friends have friends of their own that are Christian. Many of these Christian friends' sons have served in the military. Some of my Christian friends have sons that have served in the military...some are college graduates and have served as officers and have even chosen to make it their career. My Christian friends sons will fight for America when they are called to, even the ones who aren't currently in the military. They will also be the sons that will defend Israel if our government sends them there. Many Christians know that in todays American military, Jews are underrepresented by their proportion of the population. They want to know why their sons should put themselves in harms way to support Israel, when the sons of their Jewish friends won't risk their lives for their own country and only few would consider fighting if Israel needed them to. I can certainly see why there is this belief that Jews are un-American. I know that Jews contribute to America and to Israel in other ways and in very high proportions, but until Jews are more greatly represented in our military, this attitude will not change. I'm a proud mother of two Marine serving sons.

(13)
Meira Shayna,
April 23, 2014 2:35 PM

Hatred still taught

As a Jew I have been to services at just about every denomination of Christian churches ... and it is appalling that hatred continues to be taught there - and the congregations are so used to the words that they don't hear and they then say I'm trying to find things wrong.

Being desensitized means you hear the words and have stopped wondering what they mean! But children hear and retain! They are VERY carefully taught.

If not, then anti-Semitism wouldn't be flourishing in the world.

I am so sad that that coward murdered innocent people - in the hopes of murdering Jews. Hatred has no boundaries and could not care less about where their bullets land. He probably believes that anyone who would spend time with Jews must as well be a Jew.

If you go to church, REALLY LISTEN ... and stand up for things that your clergy says that is anti-anyone, especially Jews, since you pray to a Jew.

(12)
John,
April 23, 2014 1:53 PM

Education, education, education

Loretta is spot on. The only way to defeat anti semitism is to show people what you believe, how you celebrate what you believe and why. Hiding in ghettos (whether real or of the mind) was never the answer, as all it bred was ignorance; ignorance bred misconception and misconception bred hatred. You have so much to give to the world.

(11)
FR WILLIAM BARROCAS,
April 23, 2014 1:43 PM

THE SPIRIT THAT KILLS, KILLS THE SPRIT

I CAN NEITHER UNDERSTAND THE ANIMOSITY NOR CAN I OVERCOME THE PAIN I FEEL HEARING ABOUT THE RECENT ACT OF ANTI-SEMITISM IN AMERICA,TOO BARBAROUS FOR A NATION THAT ASPIRES TO BE THE LEADER OF THE NATIONS.AND TO MAKE IS WORSE IT HAPPENS ON THE DAY FOLLOWING PESACH WHATEVER BE THE REASON FOR THAT DASTARDLY ACT OF THE INDIVIDUAL/GROUP, I MUST SAY AMERICA AS A PEOPLE IS ANSWERABLE AND ANSWER IT MUST,EVEN AS YOU EQUIP URSELF WITH THE 5-POINT HELPS. WILL OBAMA AND HIS AMERICA STAND UP AND BE COUNTED? LET THEM SAY "ENOUGH IS ENOUGH". I PRAY SAYING LET US PRAY THAT NOW GOD HIMSELF INTERVENE AS HE DID OF OLD AND SHOW THAT HE IS THE SHEHERD OF THE JEWS TODAY. SHALOM!

(10)
Loretta,
April 23, 2014 1:35 PM

You Don't Have To Be Jewish

Over 50 years ago I asked our lone Jewish neighbor why she lived on our block. We were all Catholics, and my Jewish girlfriends lived on the other side of the Long Island Expressway.I was truly concerned at age 7 that there were no Kosher places, or Temples in our area she could go to. Of course, at that age it never dawned on me she could drive wherever she wanted. But, that day Mrs. K. Taught me about some of the aspects of Judism. As I grew I read The Old Testament and came to understand why I never accepted The New Testament.I convinced Jewish friends of mine who were ashamed of being Jewish to celebrate their heritage. For in my opinion were it not for Judism none of us would be here. I met a woman who was having a Masectomy as I had had. We were strangers but, she looked at me and said, " We just moved into a primarily Christian community. I feel so isolated. My son wants a Christmas tree." I explained people, all people are frightened by the unknown. Have a party for Chanukah, and explain the meanings behind Judisim. Those with open minds will see the similarities, and differences. I believe the worst thing one can do is keep things secret, and segregate one from the rest of the world. This allows the Haters to create their own illusions to the unhappy masses. And, the cycle repeats again. All through history from the Spanish Inquisition to Adolf Hitler and all In between the lucky fled, others became Christians, others thought that because they had fought for the Kaiser they were safe. No. Here we are in the 21st Century, and the Russians wanted lists of who were Jews in the Ukraine. It sent chills up my spine. We ALL must educate ourselves in order to survive.Otherwise, Never Forget are nothing but hollow words.

(9)
Paulo Carneiro,
April 23, 2014 1:31 PM

Let´s face the problem

Thank you Yvette. Unfortunatelly, some people insist in pretending that anti-semitism doesnt exist.

(8)
Michele,
April 23, 2014 1:21 PM

Antisemitism here

I've been discussing this with my friend . She is not jewish, but she lives in a jewish community and works with jewish families. Anyway she tells me the reason why people hate us Jews is cause we segregate ourselves. We only care if you are jewish. If you are not jewish you don't matter. We teach our children not to have tolerance of others. We don't ask other people about their religion or their beliefs. I feel my friend is correct I think us as people can be inclusive and find out more info on other people and their belief and not cross over in the process

Meira Shayna,
April 23, 2014 2:42 PM

Antisemitism here - response

If your friend actually said that, then SHE is anti-Semitic and believes herself to not be.

We do NOT segregate ourselves -- except as needing to be in areas where we can shop for kosher foods and walk to synagogue since driving is prohibited on the Sabbath.

It was the Christians and Romans and other non-Jews who segregated us into ghettos throughout history!!

We were not allowed to have houses or businesses or trades. ALL such things were denied us!!

If you really believe your friend to be correct, then I suggest some Jewish history courses for you.

Few Christians have been to a synagogue even once, except maybe for a wedding or a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, if they have Jewish friends.

(7)
AliceL,
April 23, 2014 1:16 PM

anti-semitism from the Far Left

Note the anti-Semitism from the Far Left including from Naomi Wolf and Max Blumenthal who throw the word "Zionist" around as if it were an evil word. They are communists and hate Jews and Christians.

(6)
Bayla,
April 23, 2014 1:07 PM

This misses the whole point.

There is a recurrent message in all of the terrible acts of anti-semitism mentioned in this article. What is the message? It is time for Jews worldwide to come home to Israel. The diaspora is bad for you. It will be your undoing if you stay. This is the message the author fails to recognize. I hope for the sake of my fellow Jews that they get out of Chul now! Pack up and get on a Nefish B Nefish flight ASAP.

(5)
KR,
April 23, 2014 5:18 AM

teshuva and tefilla!

As some of the comments have remarked, Hashem is definitely sending us a message and yes, anti-semtism is "supernatural". It is Hashem's ensuring that we stay separate from the goyim and true to the Torah. However, I'm not sure that the message is "go home to eretz yisrael". I think that we have to strengthen our yiddishkeit, our torah learning, our mitzva observance and daven to Hashem to protect us and bring Mashiach. I forget which great Rav said, if we don't make kiddush, then the goyim will make havdala. Yes, the five ways given are proper gashmiyus hishtadlus, but we need more, we need to improve b'ruchniyus (spiritually).

Jewish Mama,
April 23, 2014 9:47 AM

KR, what if the Jews of Europe spoke like this?

It's so hard to see when you are comfortable in the US (or Spain, or Eastern Europe or Shushan, Persia), but the idea is, as we pray all the time, there is a land we belong to, that belongs to us. Please don't keep blinders on. Come home. We love you and want you!

(4)
Lisa,
April 23, 2014 2:48 AM

Of course anti semitism exits....when did it not?

Why are we shocked??

(3)
Nancy,
April 22, 2014 11:19 AM

Thank you for writing this timely essay. We can never become too complacent and must always stand up to anti Semitism, whether subtle or covert.

(2)
Ahuva Artzi,
April 22, 2014 10:58 AM

Don't combat, come home.

Anti-semitism is a supernatural phenomenon. We should not try to combat it, nor will we succeed. The Creator and Giver of the Torah put it into the hearts of the nations so that we Jews would remain separate and never be able to assimilate completely among them. The great American melting pot has done immeasurable harm to the Jews of America, welcoming tremendous numbers of us into its bear huig and removing us from our people and our heritage. Outbreaks of Jew-hatred are the Almighty's reminder that we do not belong among the nations. In our times, it is possible to heed the reminder and return to dwell within our own borders, to keep all the comnmandments where they are meant to be kept and bring pleasure to our Creator.

(1)
RG,
April 22, 2014 9:18 AM

Yvette, Thank you for your important article about dealing with antisemitism. I wanted to add though , that throughout the generations whenever Jews have become too comfortable in the Exile, whether in Spain or Germany , rising up to prominent positions and living affluent lifestyles, G-d seems to send warning signs (antisemitsm) that seem to mean - My people,come home to israel. There is nothing for you living among gentiles.If the Jewish people continue to ignore the warnings ,as in Europe before world war 2,we may G-d forbid experience calamities again.Jews of America, G-d is giving you the chance to make Aliyah now...dont wait till it is too late.

Jewish Mama,
April 22, 2014 6:54 PM

Right, add #6

Great article, #6 if you're Jewish, keep a current passport at all times, #7 consider moving to Israel!

I've been striving to get more into spirituality. But it seems that every time I make some progress, I find myself slipping right back to where I started. I'm getting discouraged and feel like a failure. Can you help?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

Spiritual slumps are a natural part of spiritual growth. There is a cycle that people go through when at times they feel closer to God and at times more distant. In the words of the Kabbalists, it is "two steps forward and one step back." So although you feel you are slipping, know that this is a natural process. The main thing is to look at your overall progress (over months or years) and be able to see how far you've come!

This is actually God's ingenious way of motivating us further. The sages compare this to teaching a baby how to walk. When the parent is holding on, the baby shrieks with delight and is under the illusion that he knows how to walk. Yet suddenly, when the parent lets go, the child panics, wobbles and may even fall.

At such times when we feel spiritually "down," that is often because God is letting go, giving us the great gift of independence. In some ways, these are the times when we can actually grow the most. For if we can move ourselves just a little bit forward, we truly acquire a level of sanctity that is ours forever.

Here is a practical tool to help pull you out of the doldrums. The Sefer HaChinuch speaks about a great principle in spiritual growth: "The external awakens the internal." This means that although we may not experience immediate feelings of closeness to God, eventually, by continuing to conduct ourselves in such a manner, this physical behavior will have an impact on our spiritual selves and will help us succeed. (A similar idea is discussed by psychologists who say: "Smile and you will feel happy.")

That is the power of Torah commandments. Even if we may not feel like giving charity or praying at this particular moment, by having a "mitzvah" obligation to do so, we are in a framework to become inspired. At that point we can infuse that act of charity or prayer with all the meaning and lift it can provide. But if we'd wait until being inspired, we might be waiting a very long time.

May the Almighty bless you with the clarity to see your progress, and may you do so with joy.

In 1940, a boatload 1,600 Jewish immigrants fleeing Hitler's ovens was denied entry into the port of Haifa; the British deported them to the island of Mauritius. At the time, the British had acceded to Arab demands and restricted Jewish immigration into Palestine. The urgent plight of European Jewry generated an "illegal" immigration movement, but the British were vigilant in denying entry. Some ships, such as the Struma, sunk and their hundreds of passengers killed.

If you seize too much, you are left with nothing. If you take less, you may retain it (Rosh Hashanah 4b).

Sometimes our appetites are insatiable; more accurately, we act as though they were insatiable. The Midrash states that a person may never be satisfied. "If he has one hundred, he wants two hundred. If he gets two hundred, he wants four hundred" (Koheles Rabbah 1:34). How often have we seen people whose insatiable desire for material wealth resulted in their losing everything, much like the gambler whose constant urge to win results in total loss.

People's bodies are finite, and their actual needs are limited. The endless pursuit for more wealth than they can use is nothing more than an elusive belief that they can live forever (Psalms 49:10).

The one part of us which is indeed infinite is our neshamah (soul), which, being of Divine origin, can crave and achieve infinity and eternity, and such craving is characteristic of spiritual growth.

How strange that we tend to give the body much more than it can possibly handle, and the neshamah so much less than it needs!